Pushkar Mela or the Pushkar Camel Fair and Kartik Mela is an annual fair that is usually organized for five days. The Mela begins in the month of Kartik and ends on the Kartik Purnima, according to the Hindu calendar.
The celebrations coincide with late October and early November according to the Gregorian calendar. This year the fair will commence on November 11 and continue till November 19.
Pushkar Mela History & Significance
Pushkar holds its roots back to 2ooo years when humans co-existed with Gods. It is believed that the Pushkar lake, where Brahma used to bathe, is a holy lake where all your sins will be washed and you will be cured of any disease. It is believed that he performed some religious rituals at this lake on the day of Kartik Purnima. The lake surely shines like a pearl in the midst of the state of Rajasthan.
If we read the ancient scriptures, we can see that the city of Pushkar has been mentioned by the poet Kalidasa in his classic, Abhigyan Shakuntalam. The two epics of Ramayana and Mahabharata also have instances cited from the religious place of Adi Tirtha.
In the year 1998, it was recorded that the Pushkar Mela witnessed a total headcount of more than 1 million visitors.
How is Pushkar Mela Celebrated?
The Pushkar Mela is one of the grandest festivals in India where camels, horses, and cattle are traded. Apart from this, it is also a popular pilgrimage season for Hindus where they visit the Pushkar lake.
The Pushkar fair is a very famous tourist spot for travelers from India as well as abroad. The fair dons various colorful cultural themes. People engage in various dance competitions, tug of war between men and women, Matka Phod competition, longest mustache competition, camel races, bridal competitions, and many others.
The fair takes place at the Pushkar lake where livestock like camel, horse, cow, sheep, and goats are traded by men. People also witness different stalls where they buy jewelry, fabric, and textiles. The festival is marked by a camel race which is followed by dance and music shows.
Things To Do In Pushkar Mela
- Indulge yourself in a relaxing hot air balloon ride where you can witness the aerial charm of the grand fair.
- Go to a live fusion band concert and get involved in some rock music!
- Gorge on the cuisines of the world which includes even Mexican and Italian food!
- Watch the holy bath and engage yourself in the same which is believed to purify your soul of all your sins.
- Rajasthan is considered to be one of the best states of craftsmen. Buy yourself some local handicrafts and items that you can take as souvenirs back to your native place!
- Day 5 marks the live ‘Lagaan scene at the fair where locals and foreigners play a cricket match!
- Witness the largest livestock trade in the country.
- Take part in the 14-km Harmony marathon at the Pushkar Mela which begins from Ajmer Sharif and ends at the Brahma temple.
- You can also participate in the kite flying competition.
- Stay back till the magnificent sunset and watch it in full glory.
- Take part in various other competitions as mentioned above in the article.
Where is Pushkar Mela Organized & Where To Stay?
The fair is organized in Pushkar near Ajmer at the Thar desert in Rajasthan. The activities take place usually at a ground, which is located near the intersection of the Brahma Temple Road and NH 89. This huge carnival with dressed camels, musicians, dance performances, parades, acrobats, carousel rides, and snake charmers is a must-visit event!
Every year Rajasthan Tourism posts the program schedule on their official website before the event commences. This can be obtained free online. The Pushkar fair timings will be 6:30 AM to 9:30 PM.
The tariff during this festive season is very high. People can either opt for staying at the event location in local tents or look for guestrooms or hotels nearby. The best way to get a cheaper deal is by reaching the destination a little ahead of the event- 5 or 6 days earlier!
